Volumetric developer Tide has secured the UK’s first Gateway 2 approval for an offsite high-rise under the post-Grenfell Building Safety regime, clearing the way for construction of The Green, a 23-storey, 424-bed student tower in Southall, west London. The milestone offers a practical template for how modular projects can satisfy
SGS UK Retail has announced that SuperPark, the global indoor leisure and recreation concept, is to make its UK debut at Braehead Shopping Centre, Scotland’s premium retail and leisure destination. SuperPark will open a 30,000 sq ft space early next year, adding a significant new experience-led anchor to further diversify
Kier has landed a further £250m of Ministry of Justice work to deliver an extra 480 places across two sites, reinforcing its role as one of the government’s preferred prison builders. Under the Small Secure Houseblocks Programme (SSHP) alliance, Kier will construct four new houseblocks at HMP Northumberland and four
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust has unveiled updated designs for the Fleming Centre, to be built on the St Mary’s Hospital campus in Paddington, drawing on initial public, staff and partner feedback earlier this year. The Centre will be a world-first research and public engagement hub dedicated to tackling antimicrobial
The government has granted a Development Consent Order for the Tillbridge Solar Project, paving the way for one of the UK’s largest ground-mounted solar farms on 3,000 acres (1,214 hectares) of farmland near Glentworth, north-west Lincolnshire. Brought forward by Tillbridge Solar Limited, a joint venture between Tribus Clean Energy and
STRABAG UK is delighted to announce that its building business arm has been awarded the contract for the Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) at SEGRO Logistics Park Radlett. Located at the former Radlett Aerodrome site in Hertfordshire, SEGRO Logistics Park Radlett will deliver a state-of-the-art rail freight terminal complete with
The Government has announced several major amendments to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which further streamline the planning process. They include reducing the length of consultation, stripping uncooperative councils of the right to make certain decisions, and paring back the impact and ability to raise legal disputes. Richard Beresford, Chief
Wrexham Council has submitted detailed plans to ignite the city’s long-trailed Gateway regeneration with a mixed programme of culture, commerce and transport improvements next to Wrexham General Station. At the heart of the proposals is a celebration of the city’s brewing heritage. A former Jewson builders’ merchant warehouse would be
Footasylum is returning to Silverburn, agreeing a deal with owner Henderson Park for a two-storey, 9,585 sq ft unit that will become the retailer’s fourth store in Glasgow. The move adds further momentum to the centre’s fashion-led refresh, following recent lettings to Bershka, Hollister, Pull&Bear and Stradivarius. Managed by Eurofund
Salboy Group, the nationwide property development and funding company, has launched sales at Old York Mews, its third design-led London development since 2022. Named after the very-nearby Old York Road, a lively street running through Wandsworth that’s renowned for its cafes, bakeries and European-style ambience, this boutique mews development is
Volumetric developer Tide has secured the UK’s first Gateway 2 approval for an offsite high-rise under the post-Grenfell Building Safety regime, clearing the way for construction of The Green, a 23-storey, 424-bed student tower in Southall, west London. The milestone offers a practical template for how modular projects can satisfy the Building Safety Regulator’s demands and should accelerate confidence in factory-built delivery at height. The scheme, consented in January, will be delivered by Tide with its sister company and manufacturer Vision Volumetric. Using an integrated design-and-manufacture model, the in-house design and technical teams worked with consultant partners to evidence full compliance through detailed golden-thread documentation at Gateway 2, the point at which work can lawfully start on site. Why it matters for offsite• Process and proof: Tide and Vision aligned their technical submissions with the regulator’s expectations, establishing a replicable workflow for fire safety, structure, MEP, façade performance and product assurance within a volumetric system.• Digital golden thread by default: every module is digitally logged end-to-end. Vision’s factory controls track each build stage with QR-coded records and six independent QA sign-offs before a unit leaves the line, creating immediate evidence for Gateway 3 and data-rich handover for FM.• Programme certainty with compliance baked in: by resolving compliance at module level in the factory, site risk should reduce, installation programmes tighten and rework costs fall. Christy Hayes, CEO of Tide and Vision, said: “Securing the UK’s first Gateway 2 approval for a volumetric building is a landmark moment for Tide and Vision. Strong collaboration and regular communication with the regulatory lead and multi-disciplinary team have been key to this project. By working hand-in-hand with the regulator, we have fine-tuned our documentation and quality processes to align fully with Gateway requirements. This gives us confidence in navigating Gateway 3 and future approvals, while setting a clear benchmark for volumetric construction across the industry.” Looking ahead to Gateway 3, Tide says the same controls and documentation will underpin the completion and certification phase, with each volumetric unit’s provenance and workmanship evidenced before it reaches site. With construction now able to start at The Green, Southall gains one of the UK’s first student towers delivered to the spirit and letter of the Building Safety Act via volumetric construction. For developers weighing up MMC at height, Tide’s passage through Gateway 2 provides a workable benchmark: integrate design and manufacturing, evidence performance at component level, and treat the digital thread as core project infrastructure rather than a compliance afterthought. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SGS UK Retail has announced that SuperPark, the global indoor leisure and recreation concept, is to make its UK debut at Braehead Shopping Centre, Scotland’s premium retail and leisure destination. SuperPark will open a 30,000 sq ft space early next year, adding a significant new experience-led anchor to further diversify the centre’s offer and appeal to consumers. Founded in Finland, SuperPark operates in 26 parks worldwide across Finland, the Middle East, Asia and Australia, attracting millions of visitors annually. Its landmark signing at Braehead is a significant step in the next stage of its global expansion. SuperPark’s ethos is centred on delivering an innovative, family-friendly approach to fitness and recreation. At Braehead, it will offer visitors an activity wonderland with 40 attractions, including adventure challenges, sporting games, and freestyle activities – creating an immersive, joyful play experience that will excite and unite audiences of all ages. The significant investment from SuperPark reinforces Braehead’s reputation for innovation and diversity of offer, underpinned by its ability to attract brands seeking to deliver scalable, experience-led concepts to a large and loyal catchment. It is also the first major signing since the announcement of Braehead Ambition in the summer. The initiative has brought together the asset management, leasing, operational and marketing of Braehead Shopping Centre, Braehead Arena and Xsite to create a critical mass of retail, leisure and entertainment unmatched in Scotland. Huw Kmiot, Associate Director of Asset Management at Pradera Lateral, commented: “The arrival of SuperPark is a major milestone for Braehead, reflecting both its strong trading performance and the continued confidence brands have that they will out-perform here. SuperPark’s debut at Braehead underlines the destination’s reputation as a place that delivers results and actively responds to growing consumer demand for immersive, experience-led leisure.” Jonathan Doherty, Director of SuperPark UK, commented “Our choice of Braehead Shopping Centre to begin our UK roll-out is very deliberate. The centre already plays a broad role in consumer’s lives and enjoys very strong loyalty, and yet there is demand for even more experience-led concepts. This combination of consumer desire and consistently strong footfall are the ideal dynamics for our debut. We have the perfect space in the perfect place, and are excited that SuperPark is about to make its mark in the UK.” The signing of SuperPark follows the news that Braehead has welcomed more visitors through its doors in the year ending June 2025 than ever before, with footfall and spend up by 3% and 4% year-on-year respectively, outperforming the regional benchmark, with the Scottish Retail-Consortium-KPMG reporting a 12 month average climb in sales of 0.1% . The strong growth follows sustained commitment from existing occupiers, with 16 brands renewing or extending their leases so far in 2025. Braehead is asset managed by Pradera Lateral, and its leasing agents are Lunson Mitchenall and Savills. SuperPark was represented by Savills. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Kier has landed a further £250m of Ministry of Justice work to deliver an extra 480 places across two sites, reinforcing its role as one of the government’s preferred prison builders. Under the Small Secure Houseblocks Programme (SSHP) alliance, Kier will construct four new houseblocks at HMP Northumberland and four at HMP Lancaster Farms, alongside site-wide infrastructure upgrades and improvements to ancillary facilities. Completion is targeted for early 2027. The awards take Kier’s recent justice-sector tally to 30 houseblocks delivered or in delivery for the MoJ and the Scottish Prison Service. The contractor has already completed major programmes at HMP Five Wells and HMP Millsike, and continues to expand HMP Elmley, HMP Bullingdon and HMP Channings Wood. The latter is a £200m expansion under the Accelerated Houseblocks Delivery Programme (AHDP), lifting capacity by around 40%, with the first phase – including new staff facilities – recently handed over. The programme forms part of the government’s drive to create 14,000 additional prison places by 2031. Current delivery models emphasise repeatable design, modern methods of construction and lifecycle value to speed programme and reduce cost in use. Rebecca Boundy, Kier Construction’s managing director (justice), said: “We’re proud to be a trusted delivery partner for the government, supporting transformative expansion across the UK prison estate. We are working in alliance with our partners to focus on repeatability and continuous improvement to drive better performance in delivery and lifecycle costs. Our specialist teams are delivering high-quality, state-of-the-art prison accommodation and facilities that are fit for the future.” Fiona Parker, deputy director for the small secure houseblocks programme at His Majesty’s Prison & Probation Service, added: “The expansions at HMP Lancaster Farms and HMP Northumberland mark a critical step forward in delivering secure, modern, and rehabilitative prison facilities that maintain public protection as part of our wider commitment to increase prison capacity. The new houseblocks and supporting facilities will help ensure prisoners have the opportunity to develop skills.” For the construction supply chain, the next phase will centre on standardised houseblock packages, coordinated MEP systems, low-energy design and robust materials, with site logistics and security interfaces critical to working within live prison environments. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust has unveiled updated designs for the Fleming Centre, to be built on the St Mary’s Hospital campus in Paddington, drawing on initial public, staff and partner feedback earlier this year. The Centre will be a world-first research and public engagement hub dedicated to tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR). It is due to open in 2028 to help mark the centenary of the discovery of penicillin – the first true antibiotic – at St Mary’s by Sir Alexander Fleming. It is a key development of the global Fleming Initiative, a collaboration with Imperial College London led by Professor the Lord Darzi of Denham. Following overwhelmingly positive feedback from the first phase of public consultation, the Trust is now inviting feedback on the updated designs. There are three different ways to get involved: Website The designs have been published online at www.imperial.nhs.uk/FlemingConsultation, together with a short survey to be completed by Monday 3 November. Online webinar Public exhibition at The Bays, St Mary’s Hospital The design, led by award-winning architects Stanton Williams, focuses on: The Trust is aiming to submit a planning application in December 2025, with construction due to begin in 2026. Matt Tulley, Director of redevelopment, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “We’re proud to be creating a sustainable and welcoming building that will help find solutions to antimicrobial resistance, one of the biggest global health threats we face. The Centre will also bring new opportunities and investment to the area as part of Paddington Life Sciences, the growing cluster of life sciences and data business around St Mary’s. “Huge thanks to everyone who has given us feedback so far and helped to shape our designs. It’s vital the Centre reflects the views and needs of our local communities, as well as researchers, policy makers and partners.” Professor Alison Holmes, Director of the Fleming Initiative, said: “We are committed to ensuring the Fleming Centre reflects the needs and priorities of our community. Public and stakeholder feedback is invaluable as we refine these updated designs, and we strongly encourage everyone to share their thoughts and help us create a unique and beautiful hub, which will both engage the public and have an impact on research and policy.” Funding to build and run the Fleming Centre is separate to NHS funding for St Mary’s Hospital. The Centre is planned as a precursor to the redevelopment of the whole of the St Mary’s site as part of the Government’s New Hospital Programme. Find out more and get involved: www.imperial.nhs.uk/FlemingConsultation Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The government has granted a Development Consent Order for the Tillbridge Solar Project, paving the way for one of the UK’s largest ground-mounted solar farms on 3,000 acres (1,214 hectares) of farmland near Glentworth, north-west Lincolnshire. Brought forward by Tillbridge Solar Limited, a joint venture between Tribus Clean Energy and Canada’s Recurrent Energy, the scheme qualifies as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project. It will comprise extensive solar arrays with associated battery storage, grid connection works and supporting infrastructure for construction, operation and decommissioning. While the anticipated generating capacity is stated as in excess of 50MW, the site’s scale positions it among the country’s most substantial solar developments. Following acceptance for examination in May 2024, the Planning Inspectorate took representations from local communities, consultees and interested parties before making recommendations to the Secretary of State on 14 July 2025. Consent has now been issued by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero. Supporters say the project will help shield bill-payers from volatile gas prices and advance the UK’s energy security and net-zero pathway. Energy minister Michael Shanks said: “Families across Lincolnshire and the rest of the country have seen their energy bills go through the roof as a result of our exposure to volatile gas prices. Solar is one of the cheapest and quickest power sources we can build, it is crucial in our mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower – giving us energy security, good jobs and growth across the country.” Keith McKinney, general manager UK & Ireland at Recurrent Energy, added: “Tillbridge is one of the most significant solar projects planned for the UK to date and we’re thrilled to see the ambition behind it backed by the government today with their decision to award consent. Through our plans, we’ll not only deliver clean energy for hundreds of thousands of homes, but develop the project in a way that gives back to the environment around it, and supports the local communities it is rooted in.” The decision has, however, reignited debate over land use. CPRE chief executive Roger Mortlock criticised the loss of high-quality agricultural land: “The approval of a mega solar farm covering an area of high-quality farmland the size of Heathrow Airport highlights a deeply concerning trend: industrialising the countryside with ground-mounted solar while too many rooftops remain unused.” He pointed to CPRE research suggesting rooftop and car-park installations could deliver a large share of national solar targets without sacrificing productive landscapes. Next steps will focus on grid connection agreements, detailed design, habitat and landscape mitigation, and a construction phasing plan. The developers say advanced factory and site controls for the battery and electrical systems will support safety, quality and commissioning, while commitments on biodiversity and community benefit funds are expected to be clarified as the project moves towards delivery. For local authorities, landowners and contractors, the Tillbridge approval underscores two parallel realities: the rapid scaling of renewables to cut carbon and costs, and the growing imperative to balance energy generation with food production, biodiversity and community consent. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
STRABAG UK is delighted to announce that its building business arm has been awarded the contract for the Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) at SEGRO Logistics Park Radlett. Located at the former Radlett Aerodrome site in Hertfordshire, SEGRO Logistics Park Radlett will deliver a state-of-the-art rail freight terminal complete with extensive distribution warehouses and over 600 acres of enhanced green space. The development aims to shift freight transportation from road to rail, significantly reducing carbon emissions and road congestion. Construction is anticipated to take place over the next three years. The scheme also promises numerous community and environmental benefits, including biodiversity net gain, employment and training opportunities, and integrated transport improvements. STRABAG UK’s Build Subdivision Technical Director, Ian Burford, said: “By shifting freight from road to rail, this project will play a major role in cutting carbon emissions and reducing road congestion. We look forward to working closely with SEGRO and other delivery partners to deliver this transformative project, maximising its sustainable legacy. This success is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of our teams, and we look forward to delivering another landmark project for the UK.” Charles Blake, Senior Director, National Markets at SEGRO, added: “We’re pleased to be working with STRABAG UK on this vital next phase of SEGRO Logistics Park Radlett. STRABAG’s expertise will help deliver key infrastructure that supports the shift from road to rail, reduces carbon emissions, and enhances over 600 acres of green space. This is a major step towards a more sustainable and connected future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Government has announced several major amendments to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which further streamline the planning process. They include reducing the length of consultation, stripping uncooperative councils of the right to make certain decisions, and paring back the impact and ability to raise legal disputes. Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Builders said: “Planning reform was never going to be a quick endeavour because our sclerotic, siloed system needs careful analysis to unpick and understand. The Government should be commended on recognising this and taking a proactive approach to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill because it will be an integral piece of legislation in ensuring all projects can be delivered more quickly.” Proposed amendments to Planning and Infrastructure Bill, include: The Bill, announced as part of the King’s Speech in July 2024, is designed to fast-track major infrastructure projects deemed to be of national significance, make grid connections and pylon construction easier, and give greater compulsory purchase and planning fee setting power to local authorities. The Government believes these new tweaks will remove barriers to their plans for economic growth and fulfil their 1.5 million homes target by the end of the Parliament. Rico Wojtulewicz, Head of Policy and Market Insight at the National Federation of Builders said: “Tweaks to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill will help deliver the water and grid capacity that projects require to get planning permission. They will stop councils finding loopholes to avoid building homes. This is a clear indication that the Government understands that ‘Build, baby, build’ is a mantra, not a slogan.” The 11th-hour rewrite to the Bill was demanded by the Prime Minister, with ministers working over the weekend on drafting the amendments. The amendments, while backed by the Government, need to be approved by Parliament in a vote on Monday 20 October 2025. Once the Bill is approved by the House of Lords, it will go back to the Commons. Ministers hope it will become law by early November 2025, meaning that the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) will be able to consider the economic benefits that will come from it in time for the Autumn Budget. The amendments are laid out here. The Government’s press release is available here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Wrexham Council has submitted detailed plans to ignite the city’s long-trailed Gateway regeneration with a mixed programme of culture, commerce and transport improvements next to Wrexham General Station. At the heart of the proposals is a celebration of the city’s brewing heritage. A former Jewson builders’ merchant warehouse would be converted to house a new Wrexham Lager brewery, while the neighbouring Cambrian Sheds are earmarked for a taproom and museum telling the story of local beer-making. Together, they aim to create an anchor visitor attraction on the station’s doorstep, activating the wider site from day one. The application is hybrid. Alongside the detailed change-of-use plans for the brewery and museum, the council is seeking outline consent for a five-storey commercial office building, a new public plaza at the station entrance, and a pedestrian footbridge connecting the northern end of the plot. Public-realm and mobility upgrades include new bus stops, EV charging points, secure cycle storage and improved pedestrian and cycle access from Mold Road. The scheme sits within the broader Wrexham Gateway project, which also encompasses the new Kop stand at the STōK Racecourse and a linked transport hub. Demolition of the former Girl Guides and Wrexham District Scouts buildings is proposed to clear space for the new facilities and public routes. SHR Studio Architecture leads the design team, with Cushman & Wakefield as cost consultant, Hoare Lea on building services and Civic Engineers providing civil and structural input. The design intent pairs adaptive reuse with contemporary infill: industrial sheds are repurposed and made public-facing, while new-build elements frame a coherent station square. For contractors and consultants, the opportunity blends heritage refurbishment with phased new build, complex interfaces around live rail and highway environments, and a sustainability brief that leans on reuse, low-carbon mobility and energy-efficient services. If approved, the project would set a strong urban gateway for arrivals to Wrexham, establishing a cultural draw alongside workspace and improved connectivity. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Footasylum is returning to Silverburn, agreeing a deal with owner Henderson Park for a two-storey, 9,585 sq ft unit that will become the retailer’s fourth store in Glasgow. The move adds further momentum to the centre’s fashion-led refresh, following recent lettings to Bershka, Hollister, Pull&Bear and Stradivarius. Managed by Eurofund Group, Silverburn has seen more than 60 leasing deals concluded under its three-year joint venture ownership with Henderson Park, targeting an elevated brand mix and stronger youth and family appeal. Culverwell and Time Retail Partners acted for the landlord on the Footasylum transaction. For the retail property market, the signing underscores the continued pull of best-in-class regional centres for athleisure and trainer specialists, particularly where owners are investing in tenant mix, placemaking and experience. Silverburn’s large-format, multi-level unit allows Footasylum to showcase key brand partners and expand digital services such as click-and-collect and ship-from-store, supporting omnichannel growth across its c.60-strong estate. Alberto Esguevillas, CEO of UK retail at Eurofund Group, said: “Footasylum is a stand-out success story in the UK retail market, and we are pleased to see it return to Silverburn, where it is sure to be a welcome and popular new arrival.” Fit-out is expected to emphasise fast visual merchandising, strong back-of-house logistics and flexible display zones suited to seasonal launches and limited drops, aligning with the centre’s strategy to drive repeat visits and dwell time. The deal further consolidates Silverburn’s position as a regional fashion destination and signals ongoing demand from activewear and lifestyle brands for high-footfall, experience-focused locations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Salboy Group, the nationwide property development and funding company, has launched sales at Old York Mews, its third design-led London development since 2022. Named after the very-nearby Old York Road, a lively street running through Wandsworth that’s renowned for its cafes, bakeries and European-style ambience, this boutique mews development is well situated for professionals and young families’ work and leisure needs. The scheme is less than five minutes’ walk from Wandsworth Town station with fast links into Clapham Junction, Waterloo and Bank, as well as Gatwick and Heathrow. It is also just a ten minute stroll to bankside walks along the River Thames. Transforming a former 5,000-sqft brownfield site, Old York Mews is made up of nine properties – eight 1 and 2-bed apartments and one 3-bedroom mews house. The properties are designed around a private landscaped courtyard, offering modern living with village charm. Works are underway on site led by Salboy’s construction partner, Domis, and the first property is expected to complete on site at the end of March 2026. Old York Mews residents will enjoy a blend of contemporary architecture and classic detailing, to mirror the evolving look and feel of this historic part of South London. All properties are designed on open-plan layouts with high ceilings and dual-aspect light, private terraces or balconies, and views of the private courtyard garden. Salboy and Domis’ collaboration ensures each property comes with the partners’ trademark high quality finish too. The kitchens come complete with quartz worktops and integrated appliances; the bedrooms are spacious and private; and air source heat pumps, permeable surfaces and biodiversity planting in the outdoors spaces celebrate the best of sustainable home-building. Simon Ismail, Co-Founder & MD of Salboy, comments: “We’re bringing to market a rarity in the South London housing scene – an exclusive enclave of just nine new homes that comes complete with its own quiet green setting, yet is only moments away from the river, transport links and the attractions and fun of inner city life. Wandsworth is a diverse, bustling riverside suburb imbued with London history. We have painstakingly designed this development to preserve and celebrate the heritage of the surrounding area, while subtly blending in answers to modern lifestyle needs.” Old York Mews is designed, developed and marketed by Salboy, one of the UK’s fastest-growth developers and property funding partners. In the last ten years, Salboy has delivered 4,000 new homes across the country. The team has £2 billion of UK property in development across 76 active sites. Old York Mews is Salboy’s third London scheme, after One Cluny Mews, a gated community of 35 apartments and penthouses in Earl’s Court and Wharfside Mews, a series of five 3-bed townhouses near Canary Wharf. A fourth scheme in King’s Cross will be announced in the new year. Ismail adds: “Salboy’s roots may be firmly in the North West of England but the London development scene is a fascinating ecosystem to operate in. We’re earned a strong track record for identifying sites and schemes in some of the capital’s fastest-evolving neighbourhoods and contributing to their regeneration with our sustainable, design-led homes that marry heritage and contemporary styles. Old York Mews is another hidden gem and we’re proud to help Londoners make it their new home.” Sales of the properties are being led by Salboy’s own sales team. The properties are priced between £875,000 and £1,045,000. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals